Final Fantasy is one of the most beloved and enduring franchises in gaming history. From its humble beginnings on the NES to its sprawling, modern-day epics, the series has consistently pushed the boundaries of storytelling, gameplay, and world-building. One of the most iconic elements of the franchise is the Chocobo, a large, flightless bird that serves as a loyal companion and mount for players. In this guide, we’ll explore the steps to get your very own Chocobo mount in various Final Fantasy games, focusing on the detailed process in Final Fantasy XIV.
Introduction to Chocobos
Chocobos have been a staple of the Final Fantasy series since their debut in Final Fantasy II. These majestic creatures are known for their distinctive “kweh” sound and their ability to traverse the game’s diverse landscapes quickly. Chocobos come in various colors and breeds, each with unique abilities and attributes, making them more than just a means of transportation.
Over the years, Chocobos have evolved from simple mounts to integral parts of the gameplay experience. They participate in races, assist in battles, and even have dedicated storylines in some games. Understanding how to acquire and utilize Chocobos can greatly enhance your Final Fantasy experience.
The Significance of Chocobos in Final Fantasy
The inclusion of Chocobos in each Final Fantasy game serves as a nod to the series’ rich history and tradition. These creatures symbolize adventure, exploration, and the enduring charm of the franchise. Players often form strong bonds with their Chocobos, as these mounts accompany them through countless quests and battles.
In Final Fantasy, Chocobos play a central role in the Chocobo Hot and Cold mini-game
Different Types of Chocobos
Chocobos come in various forms, including the standard yellow Chocobo, the more elusive black and white Chocobos, and even the rare golden Chocobo. Each type offers different abilities, such as flying, swimming, or accessing hidden areas. Collecting and breeding Chocobos can become a game within itself, offering players additional layers of engagement and strategy.
Getting a Chocobo Mount in Final Fantasy XIV
Final Fantasy XIV, the critically acclaimed MMORPG, features a detailed and rewarding process for obtaining your own Chocobo mount. This process involves several quests and milestones that introduce players to the world of Eorzea and its many inhabitants.
To get your Chocobo mount, you must first reach level 20 and join one of the three Grand Companies: The Maelstrom, The Order of the Twin Adder, or The Immortal Flames. Joining a Grand Company is a significant milestone in your journey, unlocking new quests, gear, and the coveted Chocobo mount.
Joining a Grand Company
At level 20, you will receive a quest called “The Company You Keep,” which will lead you to the Grand Companies. Each Grand Company has its own headquarters: The Maelstrom in Limsa Lominsa, The Order of the Twin Adder in Gridania, and The Immortal Flames in Ul’dah. Choose the one that best aligns with your character’s story and preferences.
The Company You Keep Quest
The “Company You Keep” questline introduces you to the leaders and values of each Grand Company. Completing this quest will officially induct you into your chosen Grand Company, allowing you to access their unique rewards and resources.
Unlocking Your Chocobo Companion
Once you have joined a Grand Company, you will need to complete the quest “My Little Chocobo” to obtain your Chocobo mount. This quest is available from your Grand Company’s Quartermaster and requires you to earn 200 Company Seals, the currency of the Grand Companies.
Company Seals can be earned by completing Grand Company missions, FATEs (Full Active Time Events), and other activities. Participating in these events not only helps you gather the necessary Seals but also strengthens your ties to your Grand Company and its members.
Gathering Company Seals
Company Seals can be earned through various activities, including Grand Company quests, FATEs, and supply missions. FATEs are dynamic events that occur throughout the world of Eorzea, offering opportunities to earn Seals by defeating enemies or completing objectives.
Completing the “My Little Chocobo” Quest
After gathering 200 Company Seals, return to your Grand Company’s Quartermaster to complete the “My Little Chocobo” quest. In return, you will receive a Chocobo Issuance, which can be exchanged for your very own Chocobo mount.
Chocobo Issuance can be exchanged for your very own Chocobo mount
Customizing Your Chocobo
Once you have your Chocobo, you can customize its appearance and abilities. Chocobos in Final Fantasy XIV can be personalized in various ways, including changing their color, equipping barding (armor and accessories), and training them to assist in combat.
Customization options allow you to create a unique look for your Chocobo, reflecting your character’s style and preferences. Additionally, training your Chocobo to fight alongside you can make a significant difference in battles, providing valuable support and abilities.
Changing Chocobo Color
Chocobo colors can be changed by feeding them specific fruits in your Free Company stable. Different combinations of fruits will result in different colors, allowing you to choose the perfect hue for your Chocobo.
Equipping Barding
Barding is a type of equipment that can be used to change the appearance of your Chocobo. Barding can be obtained through various means, such as completing quests, participating in events, or purchasing from vendors. Each piece of barding has a unique design, allowing you to mix and match to create your desired look.
Training Your Chocobo
Your Chocobo can be trained to assist you in combat, providing valuable support and abilities. This process involves leveling up your Chocobo and assigning skill points to different roles, such as tank, healer, or DPS (damage per second).
By investing time and effort into training your Chocobo, you can create a powerful ally that enhances your overall gameplay experience. A well-trained Chocobo can make a significant difference in challenging encounters and help you overcome difficult quests and battles.
Chocobo Roles and Skills
Chocobos can be trained in three main roles: Defender, Healer, and Attacker. Each role has its own set of skills and abilities that can be unlocked as your Chocobo gains experience and levels up. Choosing the right role for your Chocobo depends on your playstyle and the type of support you need in battle.
Gaining Experience and Leveling Up
Your Chocobo gains experience by participating in battles and activities with you. As it levels up, you will earn skill points that can be used to unlock new abilities and improve existing ones. Regular training and participation in activities are essential for maximizing your Chocobo’s potential.
Chocobo Companions in Other Final Fantasy Games
While this guide focuses on Final Fantasy XIV, Chocobo mounts are a beloved feature in many other Final Fantasy games. Each game has its unique method for acquiring and utilizing Chocobos, providing diverse and exciting experiences for players.
Exploring the different ways to obtain and use Chocobos in various Final Fantasy games can deepen your appreciation for these iconic creatures and the role they play in the franchise.
Final Fantasy VII
In Final Fantasy VII, Chocobos are essential for accessing hidden areas and items. Players can catch and breed Chocobos, with the goal of obtaining the rare and powerful golden Chocobo, which can traverse any terrain, including mountains and oceans.
Chocobo Breeding and Racing
Chocobo breeding and racing are significant side activities in Final Fantasy VII. By capturing and breeding Chocobos with specific attributes, players can create a golden Chocobo capable of reaching otherwise inaccessible locations. Participating in Chocobo races can also yield valuable prizes and rewards.
Chocobo breeding and racing are significant side activities in Final Fantasy
Final Fantasy IX
In Final Fantasy IX, Chocobos play a central role in the Chocobo Hot and Cold mini-game. Players can dig for treasures with their Chocobo, uncovering rare items and equipment that aid them on their journey.
The Chocobo Hot and Cold mini-game offers a fun and engaging way to interact with Chocobos while exploring the game’s world. By finding and upgrading Chocographs (maps), players can unlock new areas and discover hidden secrets.
Chocobo Hot and Cold Mini-Game
In the Chocobo Hot and Cold mini-game, players guide their Chocobo to dig for hidden treasures in designated areas. As the Chocobo digs, players receive feedback on how close they are to the treasure, with “hot” indicating proximity and “cold” indicating distance.
Unlocking Chocograph Treasures
Chocographs are special maps that lead to hidden treasures scattered throughout the world. By finding and deciphering Chocographs, players can access new locations and obtain rare items,
